C Morris

R Kalnins

Motor Vehicle Accidents

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident then you may be able to recover a range of compensation benefits whether you are a pedestrian, a passenger in a vehicle or even a driver. The basic rule is that if there is fault of another party in the accident which has caused your injuries then you will likely have a claim. The ‘at fault’ party will likely be held negligent and you will be entitled to damages from a compulsory third party insurance company. The damages do NOT come from the ‘at fault’ person personally.

Motor vehicle accidents include all types of vehicles including cars, motorcycles, trucks and trailers. Compensation can apply whether there are one or more vehicles involved in the accident. Even if the cause of the accident is an unidentified or unregistered vehicle there is the opportunity to recover damages.

Under the Motor Accidents Insurance Act there is a set procedure to follow to secure compensation. Time limits do apply to these claims and accordingly we urge you not to wait too long before consulting Southside Legal.

Damages can be recovered for a range of items including general damages (pain and suffering), out-of-pocket expenses, economic loss both past and future, rehabilitation expenses, gratuitous services provided to you in certain circumstances and for various other items depending on the circumstances.

If you do commence proceedings for compensation do not be concerned if you think that a close friend or a family member is responsible for the collision. They will not be personally responsible for the damages payable to you which will be paid by the CTP Insurer.

Southside Legal will guide you through the claims process and carefully explain all options open to you and ensure you are kept fully informed and up to date at all times.

Make A Free Enquiry

Call us now on 07 5598 3266 or click on the “enquire now” tab on the right hand side of this page and we will be delighted to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a claim take very long?

In some instances, insurance companies will accept that their customer is at fault and will wish to settle the claim made as soon as possible. In those instances, claims can sometimes be finalised within a few months. However, if the defendant insurer wishes to defend the proceedings, the matter can take longer to finalise. We utilise mediation procedures as soon as possible in an effort to resolve matters as quickly as we can. However, if no agreement is reached and it is necessary to go to court, some cases can take a few years.

How can I afford to pay solicitors’ fees?

If we believe your prospects of success are good, there is a high probability we will agree to act on the basis that our professional costs are not paid until the successful conclusion of your matter. If in your first consultation we advise you that your prospects of success are not good and you did not want to proceed with the matter, we will not charge you for our time.

Will I win?

In most cases we can give you an answer on your prospects of success almost immediately. There are however some matters that are more complicated and further investigations are required.

How much can I recover?

Once we advise you that you have a good claim, you will need to wait for your injuries to stabilise before a proper assessment of likely damages you can recover can be made. The same injury to people in different occupations can result in a different outcome in damages. A broken leg may have a long term impact on a person involved in heavy physical work (ie prevent them from working in their trade) and a much less impact on a person involved in a sedentary job. Each matter needs to be individually considered.

Southside Legal Gold Coast is a law firm committed to helping you. We will provide you with prompt advice and service. Most of the times you contact a lawyer you either have a problem or your rights and interests need protecting. We understand this and will ensure your dealings with us are helpful to you and provide you with a feeling of security. We strive to make you feel “looked after”. You will receive advice that is down to earth and realistic. We can assist you in numerous areas of law.